Dhaka University Vice-Chancellor Professor Niaz Ahmed Khan remarked that this year’s Ananda Shobhajatra (festive procession) has been the largest and most diverse to date.
He made this comment to journalists at the Faculty of Fine Arts on Monday after the conclusion of the procession.
The vice-chancellor said that this year’s Pohela Boishakh celebration was organized in a slightly different context. He mentioned that there were direct and indrect attempts to sabotage the event. However, the event was completed without any hindrance or disruption.
He said: "The United Nations had recognized this event based on three key elements. Firstly, the aim was to showcase as much cultural and ethnic diversity as possible. This year, the highest number of ethnic communities—plains people, hill people, and Bengali ethnic identities—were represented. Secondly, dialogue and discussion were emphasized. While organizing this year’s event, extensive dialogue took place. We were able to engage in discussions with various ethnic communities across the country. Thirdly, the event was to be visually delightful. This year’s celebration has been the most colorful and diverse yet.”
Professor Niaz Ahmed Khan further said: “Through the uprising of the student masses, a new reality has emerged. We tried to reflect that in this year’s procession. There were two themes in this year’s celebration—first, the joy and jubilation of the nation at the end of a repressive and autocratic socio-political system. The second was a call for unity and harmony. This expresses not only a message for Bangladesh but also shows solidarity and support for oppressed and persecuted people all over the world.”
